The Necessities of Magick

To perform effective magick, one must have three things. The NEED, the EMOTION,
and the KNOWLEDGE.

Magick usually begins with a need. This should not be confused with desires. There is
a great difference between needing that extra $100 to pay rent, and wanting to buy a
new shirt, or new jewellry, or a new game. Needs are heartfelt and important. Desires
re things you could live without; things that you might not even think about having the
next day.

If you are not emotionally involved with the need, then the spell will prove ineffective.
You might need a new job, but if you don't truly feel that need, then nothing will happen.
For instance, if you cast a spell simply because you want a quick fix for a need you
might have, then it won't happen. You must have your heart, mind, and will in the right
place to work any form of magick.

The knowledge is just that - knowing how to do the spell. Now, I'm not saying that
there's one solid method of working magick. There are dozens of different ways, but
they all revolve around basic theories. Having the knowledge of the workings of a spell,
and knowing how to do them effectively is all part of having your mind in the right place.
By knowing and understanding, and most importantly, believing the method, then you
will be able to focus more clearly on the goal at hand.

With these three factors, need, emotion, and knowledge, anything can be
accomplished. All you have to worry about is experience and time. Magick is like an
unknown footbridge, to use a Cunningham term. At first you are uncertain and trod
lightly. Of course, if you think you know what you're doing and zealously trot onto it,
there's a good chance you'll fall through. But if you treat it with caution, you'll eventually
become comfortable with it, knowing just where to step and what to look out for. Doubt
and limitations dissolve with hard work and perseverance. Once you know a spell has
worked, then you'll have less doubt in your mind about your own abilities, and of the
abilities of the elements, of the gods, and of the world around you.

Another major necessity is MORALITY. One of the biggest problems with magick is
that many people are looking to use it for things other than positive gain. Some believe
that their need is a positive one, not thinking through the effects. I've read many
accounts asking for spells to keep people's boyfriends and girlfriends from leaving
them, or asking for spells to make certain people like them. They've all believed that
their cause was a positive one, not thinking through that this may result in the person
being forced to do something they otherwise may not want to do. You must think about
a spell before you perform it - the effects it has on others could prove negative to you.